Hoosick Falls Health Center Renamed

by Bea Peterson
Effective May 1 the Hoosick Falls Health Center officially changed its name to The Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation at Hoosick Falls. “Our old name didn’t really reflect what we do,” said Center Administrator Paul Corbett. [private]For example, he said, they are frequently confused with the Glens Falls Hospital associated Hoosick Falls Family Health Center, also located on Danforth Street. The Center, started in 1911 and incorporated in 1914, has always strived to meet the community’s needs. “In the beginning it was a mini-hospital located on Hall Street. They even delivered babies,” said Corbett. As a matter of fact his namesake was born there. Over the years the Center has relied on strategic planning to remain a viable resource for the community. In the late 1950s the Center built and moved to its present location. During the 1970s the facility expanded to include the East Wing. “In 1996 we completed a major renovation that increased our population from 41 beds to 82. Again, as part of a strategic plan, further improvements will be made. “People think of the Center as a long term, forever, care facility. We are more than that. We have an excellent rehabilitation program, and that is what we want to promote; short term rehabilitation stays.” Soon the Center will dedicate 10 to 15 beds, with a separate dining area, to short term care.
Corbett gave an example of a person aged in the 20s who suffered a stroke and was not well enough for rehab at Sunnyview (Rehabilitation Center) in Schenectady. After spending some time at the Center the person was transferred to Sunnyview and is now functioning very well at home. “We want the community to know what a ‘treasure’ they have here in the Center,” he said.
“The industry is changing,” Corbett added. “More home health care services are available to the elderly today as opposed to years ago. Many people are healthier in their later years.” Corbett and the Center’s Board want to keep the Center a viable asset to the community. “We need to be here,” said Corbett. The Center is the second largest employer in the Town, next to HFCS. He sees an even greater need for the Center in years to come as baby boomers age. “They are accustomed to the availability of a variety of services, and they will continue to expect that as they age,” he said.About The Logo
According to its latest press release, “The new logo of a green leaf was designed in collaboration with the HFCS computer graphics class led by Ayla Graney. (Ayla’s grandfather, Bernie Graney, served on the Center’s Board for many years.) “The leaf represents life, vitality and our community roots. It also helps symbolize the values and dedication The Center seeks in each of our staff members, as well as residents. The slogan ‘Making each day count since 1914’ illustrates the nearly 100 years of service the Center has provided to its residents and the heritage and vitality of the Hoosick Falls community.” Corbett added, with this plan and future plans, “We want to make sure we’re here for another 100 years.”Open House
The Center will be hosting an Open House on Sunday, May 20, from 2 to 4 pm to launch the new name and logo. The Stardusters will perform, and Rensselaer County Executive Kathy Jimino will be on hand. The public is invited to the ceremony and to tour the facility at that time.
The Center is a fully licensed Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation facility certified to provide care under both Medicare and Medicaid programs. The Center is one of the few not-for-profit long term as well as rehabilitation facilities serving the residents of Rensselaer and Southeastern and central Washington Counties in New York, Southwestern Vermont and Northwestern Massachusetts. The Center has enjoyed consistent high ratings in the annual New York State Department of Health Surveys.

Paul Corbett, Administrator of the Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation at Hoosick Falls, stands next to the temporary sign at the front of the building. A new wooden sign will soon grace the lawn to the right of the building. (Bea Peterson photo)

School News

Submitted by Eileen Druckenmiller Stephanie Merwin, a senior at Hoosick Falls Junior/Senior High School and Corie Rushman, the high school’s school psychologist, were honored by The Academy for Character Education at the Sage Colleges.

Submitted by Kristin LaPlante New Lebanon Jr/Sr High School Band Director Scott Thompson and PTA President Val Ozga have been selected to receive the “Friends of Education Award” from Capital Area School Development Albany ( Casda).

By Alex Brooks At the Hoosick Falls School Board Meeting January 18, Superintendent Ken Facin announced that this will be Pamela Hatfield’s last year as the Business Manager of the District. She will be retiring at the end of the year.